Apple's iWatch may launch in October with 2.5-inch screen, says Reuters

[soxhop411]

 
if a new report from Reuters is accurate, Apple's iWatch could arrive as soon as October, and it's "likely" to feature a 2.5-inch display manufactured by LG. Production of the company's first smartwatch will apparently kick into high gear in July, with Apple aiming to produce and ship a massive total of 50 million units in its first year. Reuters says the screen will be "slightly rectangular in shape" and adds that the watch will include hardware capable of detecting a user's pulse, which would obviously make for a nice tie-in with Apple's upcoming Health app in iOS 8.
Previous rumors have suggested that pulse isn't the only thing Apple's wearable will keep track of, but Reuters doesn't expand on any other features — nor does it offer any specifics on the software Apple has designed for the so-called iWatch. The long-rumored device represents a major gamble for Apple as it tries to prove that it's still capable of innovating in new areas and producing another consumer hit after setting a high bar with the iPhone and iPad. CEO Tim Cook has repeatedly pledged that Apple will enter new product categories this year, with VP Eddy Cue recently adding that the company's current pipeline is the best he's seen during his entire tenure at Apple.

http://www.theverge.com/2014/6/19/5825178/apple-iwatch-could-launch-in-october
 

Apple's upcoming iWatch may measure in at 2.5 inches diagonally with a slightly rectangular face, reports Reuters, citing sources familiar with the product. The watch face is also expected to protrude slightly from the band to create an arch shape, and it will reportedly include a touch interface and wireless charging. 

Reuters also suggests the iWatch has a sensor that monitors a user's pulse, which is justone of many sensors that may be included in the device. Rumors have indicated that the iWatch will be able to measure several different health metrics in addition to heart rate, like steps taken, sleep quality, and more.
 
A 2.5-inch screen is much larger than the size predicted in previous rumors, which suggested the device would come in 1.3 and 1.6 inch sizes to accommodate different sized wrists. 2.5-inches is the same size as the existing iPod nano, though the iWatch may be more squared than the nano. 

Taiwan's Quanta Computer is currently producing a trial run of the smartwatch and mass production is expected to begin in July, in preparation for a possible fall launch. LG Display is said to be the exclusive supplier of the screen, which is in line with previous rumors.

(While the watch is widely expected, the start date of its mass production and the extent of Quanta's involvement were not known until now. Mass production will start in July and the commercial launch will come as early as October, according to the source and another person familiar with the matter.)
 

Along with providing an array of health-related information via sensors, Apple's iWatch is also expected to interface closely with the iPhone and iOS 8, providing users with at-a-glance notifications and information. 

Reuters confirms that the iWatch is slated for an October release, a target launch date that was previously shared by Re/code. 

Update 3:45 PM PT: Reuters has amended its original post with additional information, suggesting that while the iWatch will be able to perform some functions independently, "tasks like messaging and voice chat will require a paired smartphone." The iWatch will only be compatible with devices running iOS, like the iPhone.
http://www.macrumors.com/2014/06/19/iwatch-2-5-inch-screen-july-production/
 
Will be interesting to hear when Apple gives more info on this

 

[bowiac]

As someone who was immediately blown away by the iPhone and the iPad when they were announced, I don't understand this. It's like they're competing with the Amazon phone for the dumbest product.
 
Alternatively, I'm just old.

 

[Fred not Lynn]

So is this a free standing unit, or does it need to go with an I-phone?

 

[jayhoz]

Needs to go with the phone.

I've had the opportunity to test the Galaxy Gear Fit. It sucks. Smart watches need to be watches first and smart second. I think the Moto 360 has promise. I hope the others follow their lead.

 

[Fred not Lynn]

As long as you have to carry the phone along, it's useless...

 

[Rovin Romine]

As someone who was immediately blown away by the iPhone and the iPad when they were announced, I don't understand this. It's like they're competing with the Amazon phone for the dumbest product.
 
Alternatively, I'm just old.

 
It's hard to imagine why you'd use it instead of just taking the phone out of your pocket, except for quickly telling the time.  Oddly enough, I wear a watch for that.    
 
I suppose it might let you view some information (what's going on with your phone) quickly, but that seems like a very fringy benefit. The iWatch probably won't be waterproof, and will probably need to be recharged daily.  Seems like a pain. 

 

[Couperin47]

As someone who was immediately blown away by the iPhone and the iPad when they were announced, I don't understand this. It's like they're competing with the Amazon phone for the dumbest product.
 
Alternatively, I'm just old.

 
It's going to be a bluetooth remote for those too lazy to actually reach into their pockets and hold their iPhone, additionally it will provide overkill physical monitoring to the same self absorbed lazy people (check your pulse as you glance at it)...of course if raising your wrist is just too exhausting...there's always Google Glass. 

 

[jayhoz]

As long as you have to carry the phone along, it's useless...

I'm sure you can use the watch and possibly the fitness features independent of the phone, but texts and emails will be pushed from the phone.

 

[jayhoz]

The two nice features of the Gear Fit are the ability to reject a call and pause, advance, etc a song from your wrist.

 

[Fred not Lynn]

I was more thinking it to be something you would use with bluetooth headset, for music while running or cycling...including online sources such as Spotify... and yes, for calls.

The thing that gets me is in all the ads for these things, they kind of skip the whole "you still have to carry the phone" part.

I bet Dick Tracy 's watch/phone was free standing...

 

[bosockboy]

I struggle mightily with battery usage, so if it keeps me from pulling it out of my pocket ten extra times a day I'm in.

 

[mt8thsw9th]

I was more thinking it to be something you would use with bluetooth headset, for music while running or cycling...including online sources such as Spotify... and yes, for calls.

The thing that gets me is in all the ads for these things, they kind of skip the whole "you still have to carry the phone" part.
 

 
First, why on earth wouldn't you just use Spotify from the phone?
 
Secondly, who doesn't carry their phone everywhere?

 

[Fred not Lynn]

People with big phones

( Sent from my Note 3 )

(While sitting in a hot tub)

 

[mt8thsw9th]

Why are you wearing the watch in the tub?

 

[Fred not Lynn]

No, I dont have the watch. I have a Note 3...and I brought it so I could browse SoSH while I Jacuzzed. Last week, I used it to catch the Rangers-Kings OT in there.

 

[jayhoz]

I struggle mightily with battery usage, so if it keeps me from pulling it out of my pocket ten extra times a day I'm in.

Having Bluetooth on all day won't come free (battery drain) although it might be better than turning on the screen especially with BT low energy.

 

[jayhoz]

I was more thinking it to be something you would use with bluetooth headset, for music while running or cycling...including online sources such as Spotify... and yes, for calls.
The thing that gets me is in all the ads for these things, they kind of skip the whole "you still have to carry the phone" part.
I bet Dick Tracy 's watch/phone was free standing...

Pretty hard to get a cellular radio or a decent amount of flash memory on hour wrist.

 

[CoRP]

No, I dont have the watch. I have a Note 3...and I brought it so I could browse SoSH while I Jacuzzed. Last week, I used it to catch the Rangers-Kings OT in there.

Best phone/book/TV, ever.

 

[Fred not Lynn]

Pretty hard to get a cellular radio or a decent amount of flash memory on hour wrist.

I carry computing power that was the size of a bus in 1960 in my pocket...we can't go the extra mile?

 

[jayhoz]

If the latest rumors of it being 2.5" in size are true, they might be able to fit whatever they want in there.  That's a big fucking watch.

 

[Rovin Romine]

If the latest rumors of it being 2.5" in size are true, they might be able to fit whatever they want in there.  That's a big fucking watch.

 
Yep.  May as well just rubber-band an iPhone to your forearm. 

 

[Traut]

Reading elsewhere that it will come multiple  sizes. Makes sense given people have different sized wrists.  I'll be shocked if Apple fucks this up. Lots riding on it and a lot of time in development. 

 

[seageral]

 

[Rovin Romine]

:bravo:

 

[Couperin47]

Reading elsewhere that it will come multiple  sizes. Makes sense given people have different sized wrists.  I'll be shocked if Apple fucks this up. Lots riding on it and a lot of time in development. 

 
What size dork do you want to advertise you are ?....these are the same people who just paid billions for Beats (we make boomy headphones that rappers like) because they are terrified the younger generation no longer thinks they are cutting edge 'kewl'.  The only relevant question atm is exactly how far over the shark they have jumped.

 

[teddykgb]

I wear a pebble every day. Notifications and small apps on your wrist is incredibly useful. There is value in not pulling your phone out or getting a vibration on your wrist about your next meeting.

 

[soxhop411]

 
What size dork do you want to advertise you are ?....these are the same people who just paid billions for Beats (we make boomy headphones that rappers like) because they are terrified the younger generation no longer thinks they are cutting edge 'kewl'.  The only relevant question atm is exactly how far over the shark they have jumped.

They paid for Beats so they could have their music service...... Not the headephones 

 

[Drocca]

I struggle mightily with battery usage, so if it keeps me from pulling it out of my pocket ten extra times a day I'm in.
 

I am sorry to pick on you, but what a world we live in. We are now approaching this level of lifestyle convenience. Reaching in a pocket an extra ten times a day. These are the problems we are solving. (And by we I mean, people much smarter and richer than me)

 

[Couperin47]

They paid for Beats so they could have their music service...... Not the headephones 

 
Beats currently has slightly over 25,000 subscribers and nothing about the service is particularly novel or anything that any other current music subscription service can't implement. Is there something particularly special about these subscribers that makes them worth $120,000 each ? or is it that controlling Dr. Dre and Iovine will make the service so overwhelmingly attractive...? I've got it, their connections will protect Tim Cook from dying in a drive-bye hail of bullets.

 

[NortheasternPJ]

Why not give apple a few months until the actual deal closes to call it stupid.

 

[soxhop411]

I wonder which Sox player is testing the iWatch? Any guesses?
 

 
 
Apple is said to be working with Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Kings right winger Dustin Brown, and a few other star athletes, including a player from the Boston Red Sox, on the testing project. The athletes are said to have signed non-disclosure-agreements regarding the existence of the upcoming Apple wearable device.

http://www.macrumors.com/2014/06/20/apple-iwatch-pro-athlete-testing/

 

Apple's iWatch is currently being tested by professional athletes from the MLB, NHL, and NBA to measure its fitness capabilities in rigorous training environments, reports 9to5Mac, citing a source with knowledge of the testing. Apple has reportedly invited several athletes, like LA Lakers player Kobe Bryant, to its Cupertino campus to discuss the iWatch.
Kobe Bryant was seen on the Apple campus back in May and is said to have met with Apple's chief designer Jony Ive, who has a leading role developing the iWatch. The athletes are likely testing out the multitude of health and fitness sensors built into the device, said to measure everything from sleep quality to heart rate to provide an overall picture of health. 
The source also reiterates that Apple's iWatch will be "positioned as a fashion accessory," which is in line with previous reports from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo has predicted that Apple will release the iWatch at multiple price points and in a variety of materials, competing with low and high-end watches alike. At the higher end, the iWatch could retail for thousands of dollars. 
Both former Yves. St. Laurent CEO Paul Deneve, who serves as a vice president, and Angela Ahrendts, in charge of retail stores, are said to be involved in marketing and strategies for selling fashion products at Apple locations. 

According to recent reports from reputable news outlets, the iWatch will come in at least two sizes, with one device having a screen size of 2.5 inches. The design is said to feature a slightly rectangular face that protrudes slightly from a band to create an arch shape around the wrist. The iWatch, which may launch at an October event, is also said to include a sapphire crystal display, a touch interface, integration with existing iOS devices, and wireless charging capabilities.
 

 

[johnmd20]

 
Beats currently has slightly over 25,000 subscribers and nothing about the service is particularly novel or anything that any other current music subscription service can't implement. Is there something particularly special about these subscribers that makes them worth $120,000 each ? or is it that controlling Dr. Dre and Iovine will make the service so overwhelmingly attractive...? I've got it, their connections will protect Tim Cook from dying in a drive-bye hail of bullets.

 
Did you get robbed and beaten by an iPhone or something? 

 

[Couperin47]

 
Did you get robbed and beaten by an iPhone or something? 

 
Why do you worship their ass ?

 

[JimBoSox9]

I predict the watch will be a medium-to-large commercial success and a great many people will loathe it for a great variety of reasons.

 

[NortheasternPJ]

I predict the watch will be a medium-to-large commercial success and a great many people will loathe it for a great variety of reasons.

 
I'll add that it'll outsell all of it's competitors and be deemed a failure because analysts think it should have sold more based upon nothing but their opinion. 

 

[The_Powa_of_Seiji_Ozawa]

 
iBlackberry?

 

[Apisith]

I'm more interested in the sensors part of the watch than the links to the phone. The health benefits from using this could be amazing. Imagine being able to monitor your heart rate continuously. Or monitor other things like blood pressure and hydration levels. You could basically 'fine tune' your body and health. There would be comparisons according to race and age available and you could set your target levels and push yourself. For anyone slightly health conscious, this could be a godsend, depending on how they integrate all the sensors. I'm excited for this more than how it looks. I wear the up24 now and love it, even if it only does two things. If something came out that did 10 things, it'd be revolutionary.

 

[B H Kim]

I'll be very surprised if Apple uses the word "watch" to describe this product, if and when they introduce it. Telling time will probably be a very minor feature. I have a Pebble and a Fitbit Flex. If Apple (or anyone else) can combine and expand the functionality of those two types of devices, and meaningfully improve on their useability and design, it should be a very successful product.

 

[soxhop411]

Apple to Unveil Wearable Device on September 9 Alongside iPhone 6

 

[86spike]

I used to run with a clip-on iPod shuffle which was much less cumbersome than my current set-up which is running with my iphone strapped to my bicep.
 
I use my iphone because I use the Runtastic app to track my runs and I use Rdio for music and it's super convenient to create and sync playlists (as opposed to iTunes, which I almost never use any more).
 
If the new iWatch (or whatever it's called) can operate Runtastic and Rdio and I can sync playlists to it, I will buy one as soon as they come out.  If it can use bluetooth wireless earbuds, I'll get some of those too.  I would love to have those apps running on a tiny unobtrusive device.

 

[AlNipper49]

yeah if that picture is at all accurate with their profile then I'll probably buy one.  I had a Fuelband which I wore for long past it's expiration date because I kind of liked wearing it.  (It was a pile of shit)

 

[canderson]

I used to run with a clip-on iPod shuffle which was much less cumbersome than my current set-up which is running with my iphone strapped to my bicep.
 
I use my iphone because I use the Runtastic app to track my runs and I use Rdio for music and it's super convenient to create and sync playlists (as opposed to iTunes, which I almost never use any more).
 
If the new iWatch (or whatever it's called) can operate Runtastic and Rdio and I can sync playlists to it, I will buy one as soon as they come out.  If it can use bluetooth wireless earbuds, I'll get some of those too.  I would love to have those apps running on a tiny unobtrusive device.

With Healthkit and Nike+ and so forth, I think that is the target they're eyeing directly with this. Makes a ton of sense to me.

 

[Traut]

As much as I love Apple, and would consider a big iPhone - I'm thoroughly impressed with Google Now. I run the Google Now Launcher on my GS4. It's amazing. You park your car, walk way, and look down at your phone and it tells you where your car is parked. The contextually aware cards are useful. It's integration with my gmail is seemless and frankly perfect for a watch. However, Google is not a hardware maker. And Samsung's newest watch is running Tizen and screw that. I'm interested in what Apple does but will probably wait for either iWatch 2.0 or Android manufacturers to rip off Apple's hardware.

 

[jayhoz]

The big question I have is whether this will be a sensor packed, yet "dumb", extension of the iPhone or if it will be able to connect to data w/o being paired to the phone and/or have enough onboard memory to store music, etc.
 
I think a lot of people envision going for a run with this, listening to music, and leaving the phone at home.  Most of the current iterations of smart watch do not work that way.

 

[Curtis Pride]

This sounds like a wearable iPod Nano to me.

 

[dirtynine]

The big question I have is whether this will be a sensor packed, yet "dumb", extension of the iPhone or if it will be able to connect to data w/o being paired to the phone and/or have enough onboard memory to store music, etc.
 
I think a lot of people envision going for a run with this, listening to music, and leaving the phone at home.  Most of the current iterations of smart watch do not work that way.

 
I'm guessing something like, if you already own a cell data plan, the iWatch can and will use it independently if your phone isn't around.  That would take some negotiation with the cell networks on Apple's part, but it would solve the issue for non-Apple ecosystem folks.  It opens up ecosystem crossover and importantly, gifting, which this thing is plainly designed for.  In that scenario you could be an Android user, get an iWatch for a gift (or just splurge on yourself), see how awesome it is, and also how much better it would be if you had an iPhone too.  Gateway device.  

 

[Traut]

Timex is launching a 3G fitness watch that has all of the features people have mentioned above. There is no cost for the data plan. Granted it's primarily a fitness device and not all in one messaging device with fitness capabilities. 

 

[The Gray Eagle]

I was expecting it to look like a clunky watch, but from those photos it looks like a wrist band or bracelet. Much cooler. They will be able to do some cool fashion stuff with it. You can probably change the images on the exterior to whatever you want. 
 
I wonder how much more stuff they could pack into it if they made it much wider, like a Space Ghost style wrist band. Now that would be awesome. Would have to stick a hologram projector on there and also a laser beam for fighting super villains. 

 

[DukeSox]

That's not the apple watch, the caption says:
 
iWatch concept by Todd Hamilton, based on the Nike Fuelband

 

[Rovin Romine]